Special Features

January 14, 2019

Taking Inspiration from Dr. King

As the U.S. marks the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we offer a sampling of statements from essayists who were influenced by King’s work and words—both by people who witnessed his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, to...
December 31, 2018

Playing Games

Many people play games with friends and family at holiday gatherings. When we play these games, we may not be thinking any deeper than the game in front of us. But for these essayists, a game of friendly competition brings...
December 24, 2018

Reflections on Giving

We can give with our money, we can give of our time, we can give with a smile and an open heart. In this season of giving, our essayists offer their beliefs on the importance of connecting and sharing with...
November 19, 2018

Sharing Food With Family

Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season, with the attendant gatherings of family over food and drink. Regardless of the context, sitting down to share a meal can affirm our connections, our roots, and our traditions. Click the links...
November 12, 2018

Beliefs Born on the Battlefield

There is perhaps no time that belief is more emphatically tested, and acted upon, than in war. For this Veterans Day, five essayists who served in the American military from World War I through the Iraq War tell how their...
November 5, 2018

The Power of the Vote

As we get ready to vote in the mid-term elections, here are some essays on the democratic process. From learning how voting can change lives, to reflecting on the votes cast over an entire lifetime, elections give voice to the...
October 31, 2018

Hope for the Future

Hope is a commodity that many find in short supply. We can hope for things grand or mundane, but all hope embodies a faith and optimism that good can come to the world. Click the links below to read the...
October 8, 2018

A Walk in the Woods

As fall is around the corner with cooler days and turning leaves, it’s a perfect time for a hike among the trees. Whether for pleasure, exercise, or solitude, a walk in the woods can also inspire belief. Click the links...
September 18, 2018

Life Lessons Learned from Strangers

As children, we're taught to be wary of strangers. But random encounters with people we don't know can lead to surprising insights about others and opportunities to learn more about ourselves. Click the links below to read this selection of...